A boat capsizing in Gurin, a suburb within the Fufore Local Government Area of Adamawa state, has led to concerns over many passengers being feared deceased. The victims, primarily comprised of women and children, were returning from farms and attending a naming ceremony when the wooden boat sank on Monday, September 11, 2023.
This incident occurred just 48 hours after eight individuals lost their lives in a boat accident in Rugange, Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa.
Dr. Mohammed Suleiman, the Executive Secretary of Adamawa State Emergency Management Agency, confirmed the occurrence, stating that it took place in the afternoon and that ongoing rescue efforts were underway.
Hon. Barr. Umar Bobbo Ismail, the representative for Fufore/Gurin constituency in the Adamawa State House of Assembly, also verified the tragic event.
A local diver named Mahmud, who was part of the rescue operation, expressed that the incident might have been preventable if the passengers had used life jackets and adhered to other essential safety precautions.
He further urged the government and relevant authorities to ensure regular maintenance of waterways and the provision of safety equipment, such as life jackets, to prevent future accidents.
The recent series of boat mishaps has raised concerns about the safety of water transportation, particularly during the rainy season.
